Who would have thought tire pressure and gas mileage could possibly become a topic of the 2008 presidential campaign?

With motorists on the lookout these days for any way to improve gas mileage, maintaining proper tire pressure has emerged as a useful method.

The following guidelines can help you get the best gas mileage out of tire inflation:

¢ Look for proper tire inflation information in the vehicle manual. This information may also be posted on the door post or inside the glove box.

¢ Check inflation pressure once a month and before long trips.

¢ Make sure the tires are cool when checking the tire inflation pressure. If you drive a distance to get air, check and record the tire pressure first and add the appropriate inflation pressure when you reach the pump. Never reduce air pressure when tires are hot.

¢ If you overfill the tire, release air by pushing on the metal stem in the center of the valve with a fingernail or the tip of a pen. After, recheck the pressure with a tire gauge.

¢ Replace the valve cap, particularly if you detect it allows air to leak.

¢ Don’t forget to check the spare tire. Some spare tires require higher inflation pressure.

Source: Rubber Manufacturers Association